Question:

Which of the following process best describes atomization of \(CH_4(g)\)?

Show Hint

Bond breaking is always endothermic (\(\Delta H = +\)), and bond formation is always exothermic (\(\Delta H = -\)).
Updated On: Apr 29, 2026
  • Exothermic
  • Endothermic
  • Non-spontaneous
  • Spontaneous
  • Both (B) and (C)
Show Solution
collegedunia
Verified By Collegedunia

The Correct Option is

Solution and Explanation

Concept: Atomization is the process of breaking all the chemical bonds in a molecule to obtain its constituent atoms in the gaseous state. \[ CH_4 (g) \rightarrow C (g) + 4H (g) \]

Step 1:
Analyze Enthalpy (Endothermic vs Exothermic).
Breaking bonds always requires energy. Since energy is absorbed to overcome the attractive forces between the atoms, the process is Endothermic (\(\Delta H > 0\)).

Step 2:
Analyze Spontaneity.
A process is spontaneous if it happens naturally without constant external energy input (usually linked to a decrease in Gibbs Free Energy).
• Atomization requires significant energy (high \(\Delta H\)).
• Although entropy (\(\Delta S\)) increases because one molecule becomes five atoms, the energy requirement is so high at standard temperatures that the process is Non-spontaneous.

Step 3:
Conclusion.
Since the process is both endothermic and non-spontaneous under normal conditions, option (E) is the most complete description.
Was this answer helpful?
0
0